RISING WOMAN 2025: Grace Mosha’s mission to empower women and young investors

Dar es Salaam. In a world of rising financial concerns, Ms Grace Mosha, human resources officer from Vertex International Securities Limited, advocates for early investment in education to equip children with essential financial skills and foster a strong investing culture.

For years, corporate boardrooms and executive suites have been dominated by men, but for Ms Mosha, breaking barriers in human resources and corporate management was never a question of if, but how.

Her journey began not in a corner office but with a deep passion for understanding people and helping organisations thrive. Armed with a degree in Human Resource Management and, later, an MBA, she started in recruitment, training, and performance management.

However, as she climbed the corporate ladder, she quickly realised that being a woman in leadership came with its own set of challenges.

 Advocating for early investment

“Investing is a game of numbers and time; that is why the younger generation must start investing as early as possible. As the saying goes, ‘The best time to start was yesterday; the second best time is today.’ For the general population, investing is the only way to grow your savings. We believe investing and saving culture go hand in hand,” she said.

Vertex International Securities Limited, where she plays a pivotal role, is a Licensed Dealing Member of the Dar es Salaam Stock Exchange.

The company specialises in investment advisory services, fund management, and corporate finance solutions, including raising funds, mergers and acquisitions and restructuring. They also provide investment solutions in listed shares, fixed income and unit schemes to both individuals and institutions.

 Inspiration in human resources

“What truly inspired me was the profound impact HR can have on shaping a company’s culture and empowering employees to reach their full potential. Over time, I came to realize that people are the true driving force behind any organisation, and I wanted to play an active role in fostering their growth and success,” she said.

“I often had to work twice as hard to prove my capabilities,” she recalls.

“But I focused on building relationships, demonstrating expertise, and leading with empathy.”

 Challenges as a woman in leadership

One significant challenge was overcoming the bias that often comes with being a woman in leadership. “I had to work harder to prove my capabilities and gain the respect of my peers. By focusing on building strong relationships, showing my expertise, and leading with empathy and transparency, I was able to break down barriers. It also helped me to find mentors and a strong support system along the way.”

That determination not only earned her a seat at the table but also inspired her to mentor other women in their leadership journeys. Today, she champions gender equality in corporate spaces, advocating for mentorship programs, leadership training for women, and policies that promote diversity and inclusion.

Her impact is undeniable. One of her most successful HR strategies, a leadership development program, has helped identify high-potential employees, improve retention, and create a strong leadership pipeline.

But beyond strategy, she believes the heart of HR lies in balancing data-driven decisions with genuine human connection.

 Promoting gender equality in leadership

Organisations should implement clear policies that ensure equal opportunities for career advancement, provide leadership training programs specifically targeted at women, and actively work to eliminate unconscious biases in recruitment and promotions. It’s crucial to embed a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the company’s culture, ensuring that leadership at all levels reflects this.

 Empowering women in male-dominated industries

Women can empower each other by building networks of support, mentoring one another, and advocating for each other’s achievements. Sharing experiences and advice helps foster confidence. Additionally, being vocal about the importance of diversity and standing up for equal opportunities helps create a more inclusive environment where everyone has a chance to thrive.

Message for women striving for leadership

“My message is simple: never underestimate your ability to lead. Trust your vision, believe in your potential, and don’t be afraid to challenge the status quo.

Leadership is about resilience, empathy, and vision. Keep pushing forward, surround yourself with positive influences, and lead with authenticity.”